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Gifford Pinchot/Cultus Creek
Overview
Cultus Creek Campground is a high-elevation retreat tucked within the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Located at approximately 4,000 feet, this campground serves as a primary gateway to the Indian Heaven Wilderness. It offers a rugged, authentic forest experience for travelers seeking to escape the noise of more developed parks. The air here is crisp, and the scent of pine and mountain air defines the atmosphere during the short, beautiful summer season.
Location & Surroundings
Situated near the community of Trout Lake, WA, the park sits at the base of the majestic Mount Adams. The surrounding landscape is characterized by dense stands of fir and hemlock, interspersed with alpine meadows. This location provides a dramatic backdrop for photography and nature observation. Because it is positioned high on the mountain's shoulder, visitors enjoy cooler temperatures, making it a perfect summer mountain retreat for those fleeing valley heat.
Amenities & Park Features
As a primitive Forest Service site, the amenities are focused on the essentials for off-grid living. There are no electrical or water hookups, so come prepared for dry camping. The facility includes the following features:
- Vault toilets for basic sanitation.
- A hand pump for potable water.
- A heavy-duty picnic table and fire ring at each site.
The roads and spurs are somewhat narrow, so the campground is best suited for small to mid-sized RVs rather than massive rigs.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to explore, starting with the Cultus Creek Trailhead located right at the campground. This path leads hikers up to the high ridges for sweeping views of the Cascades. During the late summer, the area is famous for its huckleberry picking, drawing visitors from across the region. A short drive away, the town of Trout Lake offers local charm, while the nearby Pacific Crest Trail provides endless mileage for serious trekkers.
Who This Park Is Best For
This destination is ideal for adventurous RVers who prioritize trail access and solitude over luxury resort amenities. If you travel in a camper van, truck camper, or a smaller travel trailer, you will find the sites quite accommodating. It is a dream location for avid hikers and berry pickers who want to be steps away from the wilderness. If your travel style involves disconnecting from technology to reconnect with the mountains, this is your spot.
Amenities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Pierre Schutz
Good place to camp or truck into the Indian heaven wilderness Closed campground to the sawtooth berry fields.
Andreas Anderson
Leimi trail to Lake Wapiki is the best
Christopher Gorman
A nice and quite little camp ground that has access to Indian Heaven Trail #33 tucked away in the back. Unfortunately Smokie's arm has been broken off since the last time I was out here. Even though it's closing in on mid-July there's still a significant amount of snow on Trail #33. I was only able to get about 3ish miles in before I had to turn around.
Marcy McReynolds
Quiet clean and a great place to camp
Jeff Crump
Forest road 24 is a busy one, but this place always seems to have trailhead parking
Jess G
Basic, but secluded. Decent access to hiking north side of Indian Heaven Wilderness or fishing high lakes (via trail w healthy elevation gain). High Elevation so cold at nights all year round, snow on trail into IHW in June. Close to huckleberry fields. Mosquitoes on another level.
Pavel Boxan
It's a primitive campground. No running water. Lots of mosquitoes in the summer. Good spot for having lunch after hiking at Indian Heaven in fall season.
Heather Tricola
Rating depends on what you're looking for. Great for a primitive campground. No running water. The handicap bathroom is better, but still just an out house. Creek is cool. Good hiking right from the site.
Scot R
Stayed here with a big group of friends in August. We were able to find a VERY large campsite (Site 5D) that was big enough for 5 vehicles and 4 tents with room to spare. This campsite has about 50 sites and even on a busy August weekend, there were still plenty of spaces available (only about 1/3rd of the sites were taken). There are two trailheads at this campsite that lead up to the Pcific Crest and up to Lemnei Rock for gorgeous views. Only 4 stars because it was fairly buggy (flies and mosquitoes abound) and the ~10 miles of dirt road was very dusty for a 5-vehicle caravan.